Sunday Snippet: Storm Down the Drain

Very busy week with work projects and client calls. My youngest was also in the UK over her spring break for a study abroad program. She's back in the States today.

Weather is all over the place, which is typical for March. We had sunny and warm followed by chilly and rainy, followed by brrrrr! and some flurries. I can't wait to see what the next two or three weeks brings to the playing field.

Had an okay week for television. I didn't get back on my regular schedule, but I did get a few things watched.

Started out with some Classic Rugrats. Only watched one episode but enjoyed it. I always like the episodes where Angelica is bested by the babies.

Watched another episode of Midsomer Murders. I'm kind of bummed Barnaby's degree in psychology isn't a thing anymore. I enjoyed that aspect in the first few seasons of John's tenure.

I finished an episode of Endeavor and enjoyed it. Glad to be back into this show. I'm a few seasons behind but I'll get caught up eventually.

Caught another episode of Classic Who. This one started a new arc and I'm excited to see where it goes. There might have been a hint about Ace's mom and I want to see if pans out.

Completed season twenty of Silent Witness. Really liked how the episode played out and I'm interested in how Nikki and Jack deal with the fallout of their trip to Mexico.

Watched another episode of Strangest Things. A couple of interesting features in this one, especially the bat bomb that destroyed an entire air force base.

Also started a new episode of The Mandalorian. I'll finish it up later today while I prep for the new season.

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Storm Down the Drain, a novella where the characters play a cat and mouse game with their adversary and fall for each other in the process.

Here's the mini-blurb:

On a dark and stormy night, Brooks Algonquin knocks on Velvet Strong's door and asks her to help him find the Burmesian Raven, an antiquity with magical qualities. Velvet takes his case, but quickly learns Brooks has ulterior motives for acquiring the artifact stolen from his family.

And a preview snippet…

Velvet dressed with care for her assignation with Brooks Algonquin. "When I play a role, I go all out." She zipped the back of her dress up.

A shopping excursion scored several new outfits, all slinky and sultry in a range of colors. Her shoe problem—she could never have too many—allowed her to choose from a wide array of options. She settled on a pair of violet peep-toe platform pumps to complement the lilac sequined sheath with fringe along the hemline.

Slipping them on, she admired the rhinestone accents on the shoes. "A little shimmer will keep my legs as a focal point." She also selected a knotted necklace of sparkling crystals. "The glistening gleam begs a man's gaze to linger on my decolletage." A matching pain of earrings finally drew attention to her face and eyes, which she'd done in smoky purples and grays.

She'd gone heavier on the color than normal, mainly to be convincing as something of a coquette. Her cases didn't often require her to flirty and she rather looked forward to bantering with Brooks.

She added a spritz of perfume—a freesia scent with deep caramel undertones. The floral aroma lasted a long time but didn't overpower. The caramel added weight and kept the flowery vibe from being too sweet.

Checking her appearance one last time, she grabbed a silver clutch and draped a white velveteen stole around her shoulders then headed to meet Brooks at Jumpin' Joes, the little bistro with a jazzy sound.

Halfway down to the ground floor, she smiled. "I hope Brooks likes to dance." The tiny floor allowed for several couples to sway along to the live singer's performance.

She'd own wanting to be in his arms—but only because the action would add to their guise of a chance meeting turning into something more.

And the something more element added a layer of danger that appealed to her.

I'm having so much fun writing this story! Velvet is a terrific character with a mind and will that more than matches Brooks's.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Storm Down the Drain

I think we're starting to get used to our state of affairs. For me, it's not a huge change. The household still has three workers deemed essential and one who can work depending on the weather. Financially, we're feeling a pinch but not a hard bite. We're still trying to show support for the restaurants and local businesses to help ease their concerns.

Kind of a slow week for television, mainly because I've been feeling kind of blah. When the weather goes from warm to cold then back again twice in one week, I react poorly. My sleep schedule is way out of whack right now. Bleh.

I finished up Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears. I loved it!! The conclusion ended up being perfect with a callback to the series and Phryne's biggest fear. And the movie let Phryne stay in character so to speak. I won't spoil anything but the romance ended up being exactly right for Phryne and Jack.

I also got to check out the behind the scenes footage and a Q and A with Essie Davis. Fun stuff. If you get a chance, check this movie out on Acorn.

Watched the penultimate episode of season one Peak Practice. I'll finish up the series this week coming up. I can quite decide if I like Will or if I think he's a complete prat. Or … if I actually like him because he's a prat. LOL

Caught the Death to the Daleks arc of Classic Who. I'm not sure how many episodes are left in season eleven, but I'm looking forward to revisiting the fourth doctor in the next series.

I decided to see if I can catch some musicals and concerts that are streaming right now. I watched an amalgamation of Cirque du Soliel, featuring Amaluna and two other shows. I'll be watching another one later this week and then searching for a musical or orchestra concert to watch.

I'm doing a trial with CBS All Access and watched the first episode of Picard. I'm intrigued. The reviews were mixed but I can safely say I kind of want to know what the hell is going on with the Romulans and the Borg and the federation and AIs. I'll be tuning in for another episode for certain.

Caught episode four of Strike Back. I'm very pleased one of the characters got to live to see another day. I love how much Chetri does on the down low. I also love how Coltrane does what he thinks he should do but changes on the fly when loyalty comes into play. This show … I'm going to miss it so much when it's over.

This week's Strike Back Declassified ended up being really good. Seeing into the thought process is always fun and hearing how they shoot things in long takes amazes me.

Watched two more episodes of Gargoyles. I'd forgotten how much Demona annoyed the crap out of me. I'm getting a crash course during the rewatch. LOL

Caught episode two of The Witcher. Again, this show intrigues me. I'm following along fairly well and I like having the three storylines playing out on the screen. Looking forward to the next episode.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Storm Down the Drain, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

On a dark and stormy night, Brooks Algonquin knocks on Velvet Strong's door and asks her to help him find the Burmesian Raven, an antiquity with magical qualities. Velvet takes his case but quickly learns Brooks has ulterior motives for acquiring the artifact stolen from his family.

And a preview snippet…

She's taking the case.

Brooks's grin faded. Now he had to figure out how to keep her safe. But … an idea started to form in his mind for a perfect solution.

Letting go of her palm and reaching for his checkbook, he met her gaze. "Will you accept half your fee up front?" He retrieved a pen from his pocket.

Velvet held up a hand. "No, not yet." Leaning back, she draped an arm over the cushion. "Let's see if I can find this artifact first." A small smile curved her lips. "And maybe see how much of an adventure this turns into." The robe parted at her waist below the hastily tied belt, giving Brooks an amazing view of the leg she didn't have tucked under her thighs.

His mouth watered … just a little.

Then reality kicked in. He'd hate to see anything happen to any of her limbs.

Clearing his throat, he pressed forward with his idea, playing a carefully manipulated hand. "Er, you know how my family operates. I ditched my babysitter to come here so they wouldn't know my plans." He rolled a shoulder. "I'd feel better if I have you on retainer. You'll be protected if you are."

Velvet's eyebrows rose. "How do you figure? If I'm on your payroll, they'll know what you're doing." Her lips thinned to a flat line across her face.

Now comes the tricky part.

Brooks complimented her intelligence. "Good point. Your reputation is well-known, but you're also a woman. In my world, you wouldn't be taken as seriously as a male counterpart." He rolled his eyes. "Having you on retainer would offer a layer of protection if only because you'd be taking payment. But … it would tip my hand." He met her gaze. "To be completely safe, and to keep what I need to do under wraps, I want you to become my mistress."

Velvet's mouth dropped open. "Excuse me?" She blinked and her shoulders tensed.

Brooks quickly clarified. "Only to the public. You know, a ruse." He gave her another slow once-over. "Although, full disclosure, I wouldn't mind having you in my bed." Not one damn bit would he mind.

Velvet's countenance changed and the seductive siren came out. "Mmm. As nice as that would be…" She leaned forward, invading his personal space. "I only get intimate with people I trust." She patted him on the chest. "And you and me … we're not there yet." Rising, she gathered the tray from the table and carried the items into the kitchen area again.

Brooks almost asked why she didn't trust him. But … he hadn't told her everything. He couldn't. Not yet anyway. The fact she'd picked up on his evasive tactic kicked his respect for her up another notch.

He stood and followed her into the nicely appointed kitchen. "Have you changed your mind then?"

Velvet angled her head around to meet his gaze. "About taking the case? No, not at all." She turned, facing him. "But let's be clear on my role. I'll pose as your lover in public. In private, we stay in our own beds." She folded her arms over her chest. "Does that work for you?"

He nodded. "It does." As much as he wanted her, he couldn't be a slave to his libido—not with his life on the line.

Velvet gave him a brief smile and moved past him. "Good." She led the way back to the exit.

Brooks paused behind her. "Once my family knows you'll be at my place or I'll be over here, they'll relax. If they think I'm wrapped up in a new woman, the shadow detail should loosen up and give us windows of opportunity to find the artifact." Most of those pockets of time would be during the darkest part of night, but she'd have figured that out already.

Velvet stepped aside but stayed close to the door. "Did you have a place in mind for our first meeting?"

Brooks had just the place picked out. "Jumpin' Joes. Do you know the place?"

She gave a nod. "I'm familiar with it, yes. A good pick. Crowded enough to play into a chance meeting, but not so popular we'll be in a crush of people. Tomorrow around nine?"

The time worked well for him. "Perfect. I'll get there a little early and claim a spot at the bar." One last thought struck him and he didn't stop to think about his next action.

Cupping her face with one hand, he leaned in, making his intention clear. She didn't resist or flinch away and his mouth slanted over hers for a long, lingering kiss.

When he eased back, he traced his thumb over her cheek. "Practice. Had to make sure we'd be able to pull off a public display of affection." He definitely wouldn't mind finding reasons to lock lips with her again.

Velvet blew out an extended breath. "Obviously not going to be a problem." She reached for the doorknob. "But … let's remember to keep those displays in the public arena from this point forward." Pulling the door open, she sidestepped to let him exit.

Brooks lifted his chin, acknowledging her stipulation and left the suite. He waited until he started down the back stairs before letting a wide, slow grin cross his face.

Working with Velvet Strong might be the best thing ever.

I love this couple who aren't a couple. If all goes well, Brooks and Velvet will slowly make their way toward a satisfying ending.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Storm Down the Drain

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. It's a beautiful day in Ohio and I hope to enjoy the weather for a while.

Another terrific week in television. Gotham keeps working the crazy and I'm loving it. The blending of three or more plot threads is terrific and I hope we continue seeing a nice mix of all.

I missed most of The Flash. See crazy month starting for me last post. But, I'll catch up before Tuesday's new episode.

Arrow delivered another great episode. I love having Thea back even if it might only be for a little while. I'm not sure what's going on with Rene, but it'll be interesting to see how that plays out. Something tells me Chase might have something to do with why he didn't show up. I'm truly hoping the final showdown ends up being between Oliver and Talia with a little Nyssa thrown in.

Riverdale's season finale rocked! The first arc is finished and the second one opened with a serious bang. I'm honestly excited to see what the hell happens next. It'll be a major wrench in the Arch / Ronnie duo if her dad had anything to do with Fred's shooting. And something tells me that's a big possibility. Then again, I won't be surprised if that's a red herring and Mayor McCoy is actually the one behind the violence. Or maybe even Hermione. I'll have to wait not-so-patiently to find out. LOL

Last Sunday's Talking with Chris Hardwick turned out to be an excellent show. I'm a Charlie Hunnam fan and having him on for the entire hour was terrific. I love Chris's laid back style a lot.

Finally got caught up on Murdoch Mysteries and, wow, what a season finale. Definitely hope the show is renewed for an eleventh season.

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Storm Down the Drain, a novella built around a prompt of writing a scene in a specific genre with a distinctive tone, like noir. I chose to run with the noir feel but with an added paranormal twist.

Here's the mini-blurb:

On a dark and stormy night, Brooks Algonquin knocks on Velvet Strong's door and asks her to help him find the Burmesian Raven, an antiquity with magical qualities. Velvet takes his case, but quickly learns Brooks has ulterior motives for acquiring the artifact stolen from his family.

And a preview snippet…

Velvet eyed the prime specimen of manhood lounging on her sofa. On the tall side with broad shoulders, he had wavy hair that looked like he'd tumbled directly from his bed. She'd bet he never thought twice about how much the rakish quality would appeal to the opposite sex. His long legs met a narrow torso and the stretch of fabric across his chest hinted at a sculpted and cut physique. Even dressed casually, his body language screamed money and wealth. Of course, the Algonquin name confirmed he could more than afford her fee.

Not that she needed paying clients. A tidy inheritance from her grandfather and a widow's pension, which she more than earned, from her deceased spouse meant she could pick and choose the type of cases she wanted. And she definitely wanted Brooks's.

Velvet read people well—men in particular—and Mr. Algonquin intrigued her. A man comfortable in his skin but not the world he inhabited. She couldn't wait to peel back the layers to find out why he needed her services.

She poured a cup of coffee from her decanter. "You mentioned bringing danger to my doorstep." Sliding the cup in front of him, she settled back on the cushion. "Care to explain?" She tucked her legs up under her filmy robe.

Brooks picked up the coffee and blew across the top. "Well, my family recently had something of great value stolen from them." He took a sip then set the drink back on a coaster. "I need to find it." His voice held conviction and determination and a hint of something not quite above board.

Velvet made a logical leap. "And you can't involve the police because the object isn't really yours." The family name alone gave credence to her suspicions.

Brooks flashed a wry smile. "You're very astute and no doubt keyed into the darker aspects of the Algonquin name." He lifted a shoulder. "And that is part of the reason. We can't go to the precinct and fill out a report for a missing gemstone carved into the shape of an obelisk." He picked up his cup again. "The artifact won't show up on a registry list. And there are people who would claim it as theirs and tie up the court system trying to prove the improvable." He took another sip of the fragrant brew.

Velvet tilted her head to one side. "Does this gem thing do tricks or something?" Why else would a connected family need to hire an investigator to find a bauble?

Her question had him choking on the coffee.

He blinked and recovered, but wouldn't meet her gaze. "Uh, no. No. It's more of a superstition thing. Been in the family for almost a century." He set the cup back on the table, his movements stiff and precise.

Velvet caught the lie and disappointment nudged its way into her brain. Even so, she couldn't resist the intrigue and desire to discover more about this theft and the man who needed to find the jewel.

Leaning forward, she held out a hand. "Well, Mr. Algonquin, looks like I've got myself a new client. I'll take the case." A smile lit his face and his warm hand enveloped hers, his firm grip sending tingles up her arm.

Velvet and Brooks are a fun duo to write and I'm excited about how things play out from here.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Storm Down the Drain

I love crossovers on television. The Flash and Arrow had a character crossover this week and it was great to watch. I think my all-time favorite might be the Homicide and Law and Order crossover. Can't really say why, but that one always sticks out in my mind when I think about the various shows that use them.

                    

I caught a marathon of Covert Affairs on Cloo this weekend and quite enjoyed it. I usually catch shows like White Collar and Covert Affairs on Netflix or when other networks run blocks of programming. I wish networks like BBC America would offer more options than Top Gear and whatever Gordon Ramsey show, which I've seen multiple times and could care less about. Honestly, with the vast library the BBC has, isn't there anything else they could put on during the day?

Enough television, tonight's post is from Storm Down the Drain, an urban noir novella.

Here's the tagline:

On a dark and stormy night, Brooks Algonquin knocks on Velvet Strong's door and asks her to help him find the Burmesian Raven, an antiquity with magical qualities. Velvet takes his case, but quickly learns Brooks has ulterior motives for acquiring the artifact stolen from his family.

And a preview snippet…

Brooks Algonquin finally dodged his shadow—the standard bodyguard his father required—by ducking into an all-night noodle shop filled with customers getting out from a popular band's concert. He had someone he needed to see on the QT and hoped like hell they'd be available at the odd hour.

He exited into the alley from the back entrance and sprinted up two blocks. Cut through another causeway and found the address he'd committed to memory earlier—17 Spruce Street, Suite C, Second Floor, Rear. He glanced in both directions before climbing the stairs and entering the building. A long hallway branched off in two directions, Suite C to the left and D to the right. He turned and tried the door to Stong Investigations. Locked. Brooks knocked, but no one answered.

He cursed the late hour. "Dammit."

A small mail slot in the door gave him an idea. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a card. He'd leave his contact information and ask the investigator to call. He pushed the brass plate in, ready to drop his message through when the door at the other end of the hall opened.

A vision of sultry womanhood cocked her head to one side. "Is there something I can help you with?"

Brooks swallowed hard and fought the kick of lust bursting through his veins. He had a penchant for blondes with svelte curves, and the flowing purple negligee with a shimmering orange robe over top hugged an hourglass figure.

He blinked, clearing his head. "Er, no. Thank you. I'd like to hire Strong Investigations to find something." He held up the card. "I'll just leave a message."

A slow, sly smile curved the woman's lips. "Based on your looks alone, it's a safe bet Ms. Strong will be happy to find whatever you're looking for."

He bit back a grin, certain he'd stumbled into good luck. "She'd best hear the details first. The work could get dangerous."

The woman took two steps out into the corridor. "Dangerous?" She waved back and forth. "She'd consider anything perilous a bonus."

Brooks quirked a brow. "Really?" He moved forward. "Is the woman sane?"

She paused and tilted her head to one side. "The last time I checked." Straightening, she continued in his direction, meeting him halfway. "Velvet Strong." She held out her hand. "I'll take the case."

Brooks grasped her palm, tugging her closer. "Brooks Algonquin. And you haven't heard the details yet."

Her eyes widened, the only indication she'd heard his family name before. She pushed against his chest, backing up. "Why don't you fill me in over coffee?" She nodded toward Suite D.

Brooks inclined his head. "After you." He followed her into the space she called home, enjoying the sway of her hips under the satiny fabric.

He had a sneaking suspicion Velvet Strong would turn his world upside down.

And he didn't mind one damn bit.

I love writing with a noir feel. I'm actually hoping I can tie some of my stories together in a series.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye